This book takes a holistic approach by providing insight into the behavior and nature of sex offenders within the church.

This book takes a holistic approach by providing insight into the behavior and nature of sex offenders within the church. The text covers various types of sex offenders as well as their criminal propensities and methods of acquiring victims. Warning signs associated with sex crimes within the church are explained as well as security measures and prevention strategies that church leaders and criminal justice professionals can utilize to minimize risk to congregants. Discussion questions and case study scenarios are provided to allow the reader to examine relevant issues and explore a range of potential solutions and interventions. This comprehensive book is intended for criminal justice academicians who teach courses on sex crimes and sex offenders, criminal justice agents (police and investigators), seminary professors and students, and clergy members. It can also assist security teams, church board members, leaders, and teachers in developing intervention and prevention strategies.¿

"As a person who has studied sexual abuse and worked tirelessly to end it for the past 36 years, this book speaks to me on many levels. Most importantly, it is not simply an academic enterprise. Rather, it is an important tool in the ongoing struggle to eradicate much pain and suffering. What is to be done about sexual abuse within the church and faith traditions? Reading this book and sharing it with colleagues, friends, and family members are two essential elements of a much-needed multi-pronged effort to curb atrocities like those described by Chris Rush, Michael Braswell, and John Whitehead. Their offering will definitely help make a difference." Walter DeKeseredy, PhD, Author of Woman Abuse in Rural Places "This is a powerful and timely book that focuses on a generally hidden problem in religious orders and churches. The victimization of children and young members of the church by predator parishioners and clergy alike is addressed in a preventative approach with case studies and historical accounts. The book can be used as a supplemental reading resource for criminal investigation, forensic nursing, and similar programs in academic and training settings. It is a must-read for those in church administration and leadership roles. The authors are to be commended for bringing a much-needed resource into view." Larry S. Miller, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology, East Tennessee State University. Co-author, Criminal Investigation: A Method for Reconstructing the Past, 8th Ed "Rush, Braswell and Whitehead address a timely topic which has traditionally been under-researched, under-reported and difficult to discuss in religious settings. The authors provide a systematic review of sex crimes, characteristics of sexual predators, warning signs and ways victims can become vulnerable, as well as how churches can implement prevention and intervention strategies. 'Sexual Abuse Within the Church' is a must-read for those who are involved in any level of church ministry or leadership." Darrell Ross, PhD, Author of Civil Liability in Criminal Justice